Search Results for keywords:"Public Comments"

A petition has been submitted to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) by Kanawha Eagle Mining, LLC, seeking permission to use certain types of Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) that are not currently approved by MSHA at the Winchester Peerless Rachel Mine in West Virginia. The company argues that these PAPRs provide both safety and comfort for miners, especially in hot conditions or for those with facial hair. The alternative safety measures outlined in the petition claim to offer equal protection compared to existing standards. MSHA is inviting public comments on this petition until January 6, 2025.

The Department of State decided to withdraw two proposed rules that aimed to prevent discrimination in using foreign assistance funds. These proposals, published in January 2024, addressed contracting and grants but are being pulled back because the public raised concerns needing more study, particularly regarding faith-based organizations. The department is taking more time to consider comments about ensuring non-discrimination and clear application of waivers, but they aren't changing their stance on the Secretary’s authority regarding these funds. As such, no final rules based on these proposals will be issued.

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is updating an existing system of records managed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and renamed it to "NIH Loan Repayment Records." This update also includes proposed exemptions for some records from certain requirements of the Privacy Act, intended to protect the identity of those who provide information in confidence. The system is used to manage and evaluate educational Loan Repayment Programs, which help repay loans for individuals conducting biomedical and behavioral research. Public comments on these changes can be submitted until March 15, 2021, and the new system will be effective after any feedback is addressed.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Northern California District Resource Advisory Council (RAC) announced a series of public meetings in 2025. These meetings, which will be both virtual and in-person, include discussions on topics like wild horse management, land acquisitions, and forest service plans. Each meeting will also feature a field tour, giving participants a chance to explore relevant environmental areas like the Sacramento River Bend and Lost Coast Redwoods. The public is welcome to attend, but those joining field tours must arrange their own transport and meals. Public comments will be accepted during the meetings, although personal information in comments may not be protected from public disclosure.

The National Institutes of Health is considering granting an Exclusive Patent License to Iovance Biotherapeutics, Inc. for inventions related to cancer treatment. This involves patents for a combination of T cell therapy and vaccination designed to boost the immune system's ability to fight cancer. The proposed license will cover the development and commercialization of these treatments for human cancer patients. The public can submit comments or objections to this proposal by December 17, 2024.

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), part of the Department of Transportation, has issued a notice of applications for modifying special permits related to hazardous material transportation. These permits apply to different modes of transportation, including motor vehicles, rail freight, cargo vessels, and both cargo and passenger aircraft. The notice asks for public comments on the applications, which must be submitted by January 27, 2021. The applications can be reviewed at the Records Center in Washington, DC or online at regulations.gov.

The Surface Transportation Board has proposed a new measure for railroad productivity change for the years 2015 to 2019, suggesting a rate of 0.8% per year. This decision, announced on February 19, 2021, invites public comments on any data or calculation issues by March 8, 2021. If no issues delay it, the decision will be effective from March 11, 2021. More details are available on the Board's website, and inquiries can be directed to Pedro Ramirez.

The Department of Education is proposing a new priority to enhance the Rehabilitation Short-Term Training program, specifically the Client Assistance Program (CAP) Training. This initiative aims to improve the skills and knowledge of CAP professionals who help people with disabilities access better education, training, and job opportunities under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). The Department is seeking comments on this proposal by March 22, 2021, and plans to use modern delivery methods like online and in-person training to ensure CAP professionals are well-equipped to meet the needs of their clients.

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has submitted a request to renew an information collection titled "Voluntary Reporting of Planned New Reactor Applications" to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). This collection aims to help the NRC plan and prepare for potential new reactor applications by estimating resource needs and improving communication with applicants. They are inviting public comments on this request until January 27, 2025. The data collected will be used to better allocate resources for construction, licensing, and other regulatory activities related to new reactor projects.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has received an application from the County of San Diego seeking permission to engage in certain activities that might affect two species: the Quino checkerspot butterfly, listed as endangered, and the western spadefoot, proposed as threatened. This permit would allow the county to develop a 25-acre recreation park while also focusing on conserving and managing habitats within the area. The public is encouraged to offer feedback on the draft habitat conservation plan and environmental assessment until February 20, 2025. This process aims to balance development with environmental protection under the guidelines of the Endangered Species Act and the National Environmental Policy Act.